Technology Assessment 2.0: Revamping Our Approach to Emerging Technologies

69 Pages Posted: 14 Aug 2010 Last revised: 22 Oct 2013

See all articles by Albert Lin

Albert Lin

University of California, Davis - School of Law

Date Written: August 10, 2010

Abstract

Emerging technologies such as synthetic biology and nanotechnology promise to solve many of humanity’s most serious problems, but they also pose the risk of adverse health effects, environmental degradation, and even dehumanization. Given the transformative yet destabilizing potential of such technologies, it is critical to maximize our understanding of them and their effects and to engage the public in their management early on. Predicting the course of a technology’s development and its consequences may not be realistic, but ongoing and methodical evaluation can help us to anticipate, avoid, and manage adverse consequences. In addition to carrying out technology assessment more effectively, we must broaden the assessment process beyond technical experts to involve the general public, whose lives are deeply affected by technology decisions. This Article recommends tools for carrying out more open, effective, and encompassing technology management.

Keywords: technology assessment, public participation, environment, technology

Suggested Citation

Lin, Albert, Technology Assessment 2.0: Revamping Our Approach to Emerging Technologies (August 10, 2010). UC Davis Legal Studies Research Paper No. 226, Available at SSRN: https://ssrn.com/abstract=1658125 or http://dx.doi.org/10.2139/ssrn.1658125

Albert Lin (Contact Author)

University of California, Davis - School of Law ( email )

Martin Luther King, Jr. Hall
Davis, CA CA 95616-5201
United States

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